After coming oh so close to winning a Stanley Cup, Marian Hossa's agent made it clear that he was interested in returning. So Ray Shero (unwise to say the least) would have to juggle salaries and perhaps let go hard-hitting anchor Brooks Orpik or mutli-talented Jordan Staal. Luckily. Yes luckily, Marian Hossa was an Indian Giver. He scorned them in favor of Swedish average player-rich Detroit. Meanwhile, perenial 20-goal scorer Ryan Malone (who was invisible in the Finals, missing Crosby passes left and right) took Tampa Bay's ludicrious 7 million a year offer. Though playing with twin Supestars, he could only manage about 60 points. That's it? You're kidding right? Steve Larmer averaged 38 goals/84 points playing with Spin-O-Rama Superstar Denis Savard. Since Malone is physcial. Shouldn't we expect Keith Tkachuk-type numbers? He was a perenial 45 goal scorer when he played with Superstar Teemu Selanne and underrated Alexei Zhamnov. But Tkachuk is a superstar and a future Hall Of Famer. Malone isn't fit to carry his jock strap. Hope you enjoy playing golf in the Sunshine State, Ryan.

While stalwart Brooks Orpik rejected more money from the pathetic NY Rangers and signed with the Penguins with a Hometown Discount. While attending the Awards with GM Ray Shero, Evgeni Malkin responded to potential trade rumors by making it quite clear he was happy here and wanted to be part of something special...the New Generation Pittsburgh Penguin Dynasty. He also signed an extention for less than what Big Spenders like the Flyers and Rangers would probably offer.

Fast forward several months, and the virteous get their right rewards. The Meek become the Victors. While the sloth and shortsighted get what's entitled to them. Some people call it Luck or Chance. I call it Karma.